Perhaps it was because Bridgeport’s first round opponent didn’t bring a large crowd due to the distance their fan base would need to travel that stopped people from buying playoff tickets in advance. Or perhaps many simply didn’t want to save a few minutes or, if they had kids, a few dollars for the Indians' opening round game with Liberty Raleigh.

 

BHS Principal Mark DeFazio isn’t quite sure, but was surprised at the lack of folks that took advantage of advance ticket sales for last week’s opening playoff round game. Considering that there should be a massive crowd for Saturday’s second round game between the Class AA top-ranked Tribe and No. 8 Robert C. Byrd at Wayne Jamison Field, DeFazio thinks for individuals may want to get their tickets early and avoid any waiting at the gate.

 

“This is a game where we know we’re going to have a crowd and if you don’t want to wait in line then it’s best to get an advance ticket. They can come through the pass gate (the field’s main entrance) and had them to myself or someone else there and walk right in,” said DeFazio.

 

Saturday’s 1:30 p.m. contest with the Eagles will see the gates open at 11:45 a.m. If you want to be an individual to get your ticket early, you need to visit the BHS Cafeteria Friday evening from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. DeFazio said those seeking to purchase the tickets need to enter the building from the back of the school by way of the student parking lot.

 

Tickets in advance are $5 for students and $7 for adults. All tickets on game day will cost $7 regardless of adult or student.

 

It should also be noted that the front lot in front of Wayne Jamison Field, which is for reserved parking during the regular season, is on a first-come, first serve basis. Reserved seating also is not allowed during the postseason.

 

“The reason for that is that it’s a WVSSAC event as opposed to a Bridgeport High School event,” said DeFazio recently about that process. “We’re simply hosting the game for them and have to follow their postseason rules.”

 

What that means is that student or even senior passes do not work for the game. The only passes accepted are WVSSAC coaches and media passes.

 

Editor's Note: BHS backup quarterback Gordon Swiger gets a celebratory lift from one of his linemen following his second half touchdown run last Friday agaisnt Liberty Raleigh. Photos, including the cover shot, by Ben Queen of www.benqueenphotography.com.